For many families the Each One Teach One (EOTO) program is much more than a literacy program. Through intensive, small-group language development lessons students learn the power that words have. Every day over the course of nine-week sessions, EOTO students gather for 25-45 minutes to engage in vigorous conversations, inspired by a richly-illustrated book, to build their vocabulary as they are encouraged to observe, label and describe what they see. Students proudly wear the new words they learn, their “Keys to the Future,” on lanyards around their necks. These keys serve as learning aids, conversation starters and public symbols of achievement. Each word learned helps a struggling reader build more confidence. Each word is a reminder to the student that through hard work and perseverance they can attain any goal they set out to achieve. Through each word learned the student better understands the power the words have.
Words are not just power for the students, but also for their families and the volunteers, who are a big part of the program. Parents, siblings and community volunteers spend time every week reading with and working one-on-one with their students. This year, several volunteers – parents and siblings of the Greenwood students – have been awarded with special recognition and a very significant opportunity: to earn a college degree.
“The heart of our work is the children,” said Mary Ann Bash, Founder of EOTO. “Success starts at home, and it’s so critical that parents and siblings have the tools they need to pass along to their children, or siblings. We are so excited that several of our volunteers have been awarded the AmeriCorps Education Award, an opportunity for them to attend college at no cost. This opportunity will increase the likelihood of our students going to college – to be like mom, dad, brother or sister.” Research proves that students with a home environment that is conducive to and supportive of learning will help reinforce what is being learned at school. EOTO encourages that home environment by engaging students’ families in fostering literacy and a love for reading.
Recently school leaders, students, parents and community volunteers had the opportunity to gather for the Annual EOTO Recognition Luncheon to celebrate growth and success of the students and give gratitude and thanks to all partners involved. This year a very special guest joined in the celebration: Marie Greenwood. Greenwood was one of the first African American school teachers in Denver in 1935 at Whittier Elementary. She continued teaching in DPS for thirty years. Her legacy is still a huge part of the DPS community today, as the name namesake of Greenwood Elementary in the Far Northeast Region. Greenwood exclaimed, “I am so proud of Marie L. Greenwood Elementary. This is something I never expected. There are many great programs here, including EOTO. Every child should have the opportunity to participate in EOTO.”
Congratulations EOTO on another successful year: students who participate in EOTO are 2.6 times more likely to be reading at grade level than their peers. Keep up hard work EOTO! Thank you for teaching our students the power of words! Read more about this intensive, innovative literacy program here.